UN: No sign of Islamic State group militants in Philippines
A UN counterterrorism official says there is no evidence that Islamic State militants have gained a foothold in the Philippines but that the country can take more steps to help fight a group that has vowed to expand its reach.
Filipino militants belonging to two small but violent Muslim insurgent groups in the southern Philippines, including the al-Qaeda-inspired Abu Sayyaf, have publicly vowed support to the Islamic State group, sparking concerns among local security officials.
Jean-Paul Laborde said Thursday the Philippines and other countries can take preventive steps to shield their territories from the terrorists, including by strengthening laws and regulations to prevent local Muslim communities from being targeted for recruitment and to deprive the militants of financial resources. Laborde discussed counterterrorism steps with officials in Manila.
